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DTC codes / Volkswagen codes / P1762

P1762 · VolkswagenShift Lock Short To B+

P1762 on Volkswagen vehicles means the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a short to battery positive voltage (B+) on the shift lock solenoid control circuit. The TCM expects this circuit to be pulled low when the shift lock is commanded, but it sees continuous high voltage, indicating a wiring fault, a failed solenoid, or an internal TCM issue.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeVolkswagen specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaTransmission

Symptoms you may notice

  • The gear selector cannot be moved out of Park even with the brake pedal pressed.
  • The shift lock solenoid does not click or actuate when the brake is applied.
  • A constant battery drain may occur if the short keeps the solenoid energized.
  • The transmission may stay in a default mode or the instrument cluster may show a gearbox warning.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the short is intermittent.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Chafed or damaged wiring between the TCM and the shift lock solenoid shorting to a battery positive wire.
  2. Shift lock solenoid internally shorted to its power feed or housing.
  3. Corroded or loose connector pins at the shift lock solenoid or TCM harness.
  4. Aftermarket alarm or remote start wiring improperly tapped into the shift lock circuit.
  5. Liquid intrusion into the center console or TCM connector causing a conductive path to B+.
  6. Internal failure of the TCM driver for the shift lock circuit (rare but possible).

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules for fault codes and verify P1762 is current, then check the shift lock solenoid operation with a bidirectional scan tool.
  2. Inspect the shift lock solenoid connector and the TCM connector for corrosion, loose pins, or signs of liquid damage.
  3. Disconnect the shift lock solenoid and measure resistance across its terminals; compare to the manufacturer's specification.
  4. With the solenoid disconnected, check for battery voltage on the control wire with the key on and the brake pedal released; voltage should be near zero.
  5. Trace the harness from the TCM to the shift lock solenoid, looking for chafed insulation or pinched wires near the center console and steering column.
  6. If the harness is intact, substitute a known-good shift lock solenoid and clear the code to see if it returns.
  7. If the code persists with a known-good solenoid and verified wiring, test the TCM output with a load box or replace the TCM as a last step.

Before you replace the shift lock solenoid

  • A short to B+ on the shift lock circuit often comes from aftermarket accessories tapped into the brake pedal or shift interlock wiring, so always check for non-factory wiring first.
  • The shift lock solenoid shares a power feed with other interior components on many VW models, so a blown fuse elsewhere can sometimes mask the real short.
  • A scan tool that can command the shift lock solenoid on and off is the fastest way to confirm whether the fault is in the solenoid or the wiring, saving hours of guessing.
  • P1762 can set intermittently when the harness rubs against the shift mechanism only in certain gear positions, so wiggle-test the harness while watching live data.
  • Do not overlook the TCM ground connections; a poor ground can cause the TCM to misinterpret circuit voltages and set a false short-to-B+ code.

Can I keep driving with P1762?

If the gear selector cannot be moved out of Park, the vehicle is not driveable and should not be forced. If the car still drives but the warning light is on, avoid long trips and get the circuit inspected soon, as a constant short can drain the battery or damage the TCM.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Volkswagen vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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